James S. McDonnell Planetarium
The Saint Louis Science Center's James S. McDonnell Planetarium is one of the nation's leading space education facilities. It features the unique Boeing Space Station, with two fabulous levels of exhibits that incorporate scientific research, illustrating the future of space travel. The Orthwein StarBay has several lab areas, including the SBC Learning Center, that give visitors a glimpse of what it's like to live and work on the International Space Station. In the Crew Quarters see how dwellers eat, exercise, sleep and dress in space, as well as how medical needs and the stations internal and external environments are maintained.
The StarBay's most amazing feature is the central open area dominated by the Zeiss Planetarium Model IX which projects more than 9,000 stars onto an 80-foot dome creating a brilliant star field. Visitors can look up and see what the actual night sky would look like without the interference of weather, pollution, or city lights. Special features allow Planetarium staff to demonstrate eclipses, meteor showers and other celestial phenomena. The immensity and clarity of the view creates a sense of wonder and stimulates the imagination.
The StarBridge, located on the highest level, focuses on the navigation and operations essential for life in space. Exhibits demonstrate the roles that communication, astronomical research, power and exploration will play in maintaining a space station.
The James S. McDonnell Planetarium has activities and events for all ages. We do not have any currently listed but please check back later about the related special programs & events and you're sure to find something more to do.
For more information call 314.289.4424 or toll-free 800.456.SLSC, x4424.
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